India’s Commonwealth Games medal hopes suffered a major setback after Tejaswin Shankar was forced to withdraw from the men’s high jump final due to a knee injury in Glasgow. The star athlete, who entered the competition as one of the favourites for gold, was left emotional as his campaign came to an abrupt end before it truly began.
The Birmingham 2022 bronze medallist broke down while addressing the media, admitting that the untimely injury had shattered his hopes of adding another Commonwealth Games medal to his collection.
Injury Ends Medal Bid Before Competition Begins
Shankar had been in excellent form heading into the Games and believed he was capable of winning the gold medal.
However, moments before the competition, his knee gave way due to a flare-up of a patella tendon injury. Although officially marked as Did Not Start (DNS), he attempted one jump in the hope of continuing but was unable to compete further.
The heartbreaking setback ended his medal challenge almost immediately.
“I Was Ready to Win a Medal”
Speaking after the event, an emotional Tejaswin said the injury could not have come at a worse time.
He explained that overuse injuries to the patella tendon are common among high jumpers, but unfortunately, the problem resurfaced on the biggest day of the season.
Despite months of preparation and confidence in his form, the injury prevented him from showcasing his abilities on the Commonwealth stage.
Patella Tendon Injury Behind Withdrawal
According to Shankar, the injury is not unusual among elite jumpers.
The repetitive stress placed on the knee during training and competition often affects the patella tendon, and athletes usually manage the condition throughout the season.
Unfortunately for the Indian star, the injury flared up just before the final, making it impossible for him to compete.
Supporting Sarvesh Kushare Despite Personal Disappointment
Even after withdrawing from the competition, Shankar remained beside the field to support fellow Indian athlete Sarvesh Kushare.
During the event, he offered tactical advice as Kushare battled for a podium finish.
At one stage, Tejaswin suggested that Kushare skip an attempted height and directly target a higher mark to improve his chances of winning gold.
Although Kushare chose a different strategy, he successfully cleared 2.25 metres on his final attempt and eventually secured a historic silver medal for India.
The achievement made Kushare the first Indian male high jumper to win a Commonwealth Games medal better than bronze.
Focus Shifts to Decathlon
Despite the disappointment, Tejaswin Shankar has not ruled himself out of the remainder of the Commonwealth Games.
The versatile athlete is expected to compete in the decathlon and remains hopeful that medical treatment over the next few days will allow him to recover sufficiently.
He expressed confidence in his support team and remains determined to continue competing rather than ending his campaign early.
A Tough Blow for India’s Medal Hopes
Tejaswin Shankar’s withdrawal is a significant setback for India’s athletics contingent, especially given his recent form and medal expectations.
However, his determination to return for the decathlon reflects the resilience that has defined his career.
Indian fans will now hope the high jumper recovers quickly and can make a successful comeback before the Games conclude.
FAQs
1. Why did Tejaswin Shankar withdraw from the Commonwealth Games high jump?
He withdrew after suffering a flare-up of a knee injury involving his patella tendon before the final.
2. Which event was Tejaswin Shankar competing in?
He was set to compete in the men’s high jump final at the Commonwealth Games 2026.
3. Was Tejaswin Shankar a medal contender?
Yes. He entered the competition as one of India’s strongest contenders for a gold or medal finish.
4. What injury did Tejaswin Shankar suffer?
He experienced a flare-up of a patella tendon injury in his knee.
5. Did Tejaswin Shankar attempt to compete?
Yes. Although listed as Did Not Start (DNS), he made one attempt before withdrawing.
6. Who won India’s medal in the men’s high jump?
Sarvesh Kushare won a historic silver medal for India.
7. How did Tejaswin Shankar help Sarvesh Kushare?
Despite his injury, he stayed on the sidelines and offered tactical advice during the competition.
8. Will Tejaswin Shankar compete in other events?
Yes. He is hopeful of recovering in time to participate in the decathlon.
9. What medal did Tejaswin Shankar win at the previous Commonwealth Games?
He won a bronze medal in the men’s high jump at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
10. Why is Tejaswin Shankar’s withdrawal significant?
His absence reduced India’s medal chances in one of its strongest athletics events, making it a major setback for the contingent.
